What is Animal Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is the same whether we use it on humans or our four-legged companions.
Why Animal Chiropractic?
Chiropractic treatment is appropriate for the following conditions:
- Muscles spasms, injuries from slips, falls and accidents, event or sports injuries
- Neck, back, leg, and tail pain, limping, jaw problems, difficulty chewing
- Disc, joint, or nerve problems
- Post-surgical care, maintenance of joint and spinal health, and internal disorders
How do you know your pet needs Chiropractic care?
Has your pet:
- Competed in athletic events?
- Had difficulty getting up or down?
- Had recurring conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, respiratory or urinary infections?
- Had seizures or neurological problems?
- Over seven years old?
- Gone over a year without a chiropractic evaluation?
- Been anesthetized for surgery?
If you answer yes to any one of these question, then chiropractic can help your pet.
Office procedures
The animal will undergo a Chiropractic analysis which includes case history from the owner and information to establish the state of the animal’s health and to determine the various health problems. A chiropractic examination, before the adjustment consists of posture and gait analysis, vertebral and extremity motion palpation, and orthopedic and neurological tests. A schedule of treatment will be established for the animal. Most animals are seen on a monthly basis depending on the condition. Some may require more frequent visits at first, but most need to be seen every month for the first 2-4 months. Wellness visits are recommended to keep the animal’s neuromusculoskeletal system healthy.
Chiropractic care is directed towards preventing disease in the body. It is important to make sure the spine is kept in optimum condition. Most animals should have a yearly examination and adjustments. Older animals may need to be seen more frequently. Animal chiropractors do not medicate, perform surgery or attempt to replace necessary traditional veterinary care.
Certification
AVCA certification is awarded to licensed chiropractors and veterinarians who have passed a postgraduate program in Animal Chiropractic accredited by the Animal Chiropractic Accreditation Commission (ACAC of the AVCA,) passed both the written and clinical competency examination. All doctors certified by the AVCA must complete continuing education hours to maintain their certification.
After completion of Colorado SB18-239, Dr. Julie Levering is now a licensed animal chiropractor.
